Posted by Chris (South Jersey, United States) on 16 June 2008 in People & Portraits.
Tonight my eldest daughter Samantha graduates from High School. Looking back at how she has grown and trying to remember when she was "my little Sammy" makes me realize just how fast time flies and how precious every second is.
I am so proud of her and what she has accomplished. Even though I am happy for her as she starts her next journey in life, a part of me is sad because I know that things will never be the same. She will be going off to college in the fall, and although my wife and I still have another daughter at home, the house will be very empty and quiet.
And as I tell my daughter to trust in God, that He will take care of her and guide her in whatever she does and whatever she is going through, I need to remember that myself.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13
I am on vacation for a few days and will not be able to comment on your pictures - thanks for stopping by and I will try to catch up when I get back. I hope that I can become a better photographer with the examples here on Am3 and by getting your feedback on my images.
I may not be able to reply to each of your comments - but they mean a lot to me and I thank you!
Please stop by and visit my daughter's photoblog - Views of a Girl Please visit my wife's blog - The Noble Wife
Wonderful images and great story. I have two daughters of similar age so I know the feeling.
16 Jun 2008 12:09am
@Michael Skorulski: Thank you - weird that they grow up so quick....
where there is fathe there is success too. It is great to see them become independent.
16 Jun 2008 4:20am
@Dimitrios: Yes it is....
Congratulations to Samantha on ther graduation, and I wish her well in all her endeavors! She's a beautiful girl!
16 Jun 2008 4:55am
@Betty: Thank you Betty!!
This is a momentous occasion for both Samantha and your family; the dynamics will change come fall. You and Jacquelynn have taught her well and leaning on Jeremiah 29:11-13, 'Sammy' will prosper. This is a wonderful presentation from a loving father!
16 Jun 2008 5:43am
@Judy: Thank you very much Judy - your kind words are always so encouraging!!
Chris, how well I understand that feeling. Our two girls and our son are just a bit further along (they've finished college now). But the feeling of "letting go" is not an easy one, and the echoes of memory and now quiet in the home are always still there. You chose a very good verse.
16 Jun 2008 11:32am
@Viewfinder: Thank you for your kind words, VF. I know we will get "used to it" but a part of me doesn't want to - I guess that is natural....
This is a very precious presentation Chris. Jeremiah 29:11-13 is probably one of my favorite scriptures. I think learning to trust is a life long journey and I must say a wonderful one. You have taught Samantha well and those roots and God's word will never fail her.
16 Jun 2008 11:34am
@Marion: You are right Marion - every time I think I am learning to trust God I find myself wanting to take control again!! Thanks for your kind words....
What a fabulous and sweet, loving tribute to your daughter! Congrats to the graduate! And, such a nice subject for Father's Day!
16 Jun 2008 5:09pm
@Kelela: Thank you - we are back now from graduation and very proud, but a little sad....
Great photos and a touching story. My little daughter is only 7 months old but it already amazes me how fast time flies. All the best for your daughter's new life.
16 Jun 2008 10:09pm
@Aaron Schmidt: Thank you very much. Hold on tight to your little one - the moments pass fast and each one should be treasured!!
Very nice, beautiful girl.... They always come back, and it is even better.
17 Jun 2008 1:46am
@See The Light: Thank you very much....
Fabulous presentation! I loved seeing her at the beginning and end of her school years. My son just came home from his first year at college. Last summer I was going through agonies of letting go. I empathize.
18 Jun 2008 1:58pm
@Anita: We just can't believe how fast time has gone by. I know we will get through this period and the fall when she is gone, but it is hard to think about.
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